Welding procedures involve a series of tests and controls to confirm the accuracy of the welding method used, test mechanical values that cannot be tested in practice, and report the results. If the test results are satisfactory, welding instructions (WPS) are prepared based on the values used in the preparation of the PQR (WPAR) and are used in the application.

The most commonly used standard when preparing welding procedures is the “EN ISO 15614 Specification and Qualification of Welding Procedures for Metallic Materials – Welding Procedure Test.” Additionally, ASME IX, AWS D1.1, and AWS D1.2 are also widely used standards.

To conduct welding procedure tests, also known as PQR (Procedure Qualification Record) or WPAR (Welding Procedure Approval Record), the manufacturer first prepares a preliminary welding instruction (pWPS). When preparing this pWPS, previous experiences and recommendations from consumable manufacturers can be used.

Next, welding is performed according to the pWPS values, and variables such as voltage, amperage, and duration are recorded for each welding pass. The completed weld is subjected to the tests required by the standard. Methods that pass the tests successfully are reported, and the PQR is completed.

The information that should be included in the PQR report is as follows:

• Manufacturer information
• Type and details of the welding process
• Welding position
• Material types and thicknesses
• Consumable details
• Preheat and interpass temperature
• Recorded values during welding
• Summary of test results and report numbers

In addition to the WPAR record, the pWPS used, material certificates, and test reports should also be included.